Best bets: From Oct. 28-Nov. 3

Oct. 23, 2012

Safe Trick or Treating at the Battlefield Mall is free for ages 12 and younger. / File photo

The James River Assembly will host October 31st parties at both campuses. / File photo

More

ADVERTISEMENT

Right on target!

• Bring your young archer to the free archery clinic 1 p.m. Nov. 3, at Valley Water Mill Park, 2300 E. Valley Water Mill Rd. This is a clinic for first-timers and those who need to brush up on their skills (ages 8 and older) with instructors from the National Archery in Schools Program. Then, your child can put her eagle eyes to the test in a youth-only archery tournament at 2:30 p.m. Prizes include frozen turkeys. The fee is $2 for five shots.

While you are at Valley Water Mill Park, head over to the free Outdoor Initiatives Open House, 10:30 a.m.-4 p.m. There will be displays, demonstrations, activities and Dutch Oven cookery samples. Call 833-8647 for information.

Reading to animals

• Your furry friends from Pet Therapy of the Ozarks need help: They love a good story but can’t read! Bring your young reader (K-5) to Reading Pals 4 p.m. Nov. 1, at the Republic Branch Library, 912 N. Lindsey Ave., to practice reading with these lovable animals. Call 417-732-7284 for information.

Tricks and treats

• Start Halloween night off at the Springfield Art Museum! Trick-Art-Treat is 3-5 p.m. Oct. 31, at the museum, 1111 E. Brookside Dr. This free event will include arts and crafts activities for children and much more. Call 837-5700 for information.

• Safe Trick or Treating at Malloween is 5-8 p.m. Oct. 31 at the JC Penney East Court at Battlefield Mall, 2825 S. Glenstone Ave. This is free for ages 12 and younger. Call 883-4111 for information.

• The James River Assembly will host parties 6-9 p.m. Oct. 31, at both campuses: 6100 N. 19th St., Ozark, and 3953 W. Farm Road 168. These parties are free, and all ages are welcome. Call 581-5433 or visit www.jamesriver.org.

• Trick or Treating at Branson Landing is 5-7 p.m. Oct. 31, 100 Branson Landing Blvd. This is a safe Halloween alternative for children in costume up to age 12. Street dance and “Thriller” flash mob will follow. Visit bransonlanding.com.